Windsor Castle Boat Hire offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the scenic beauty of the River Thames and the iconic Windsor Castle from the comfort of a boat. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely cruise, a private charter, or a self-guided adventure, Windsor Castle Boat Hire has a variety of options to suit your needs.
Types of Boat Trips Available
Windsor Castle Boat Hire partners with several local providers to offer a diverse range of boat experiences:
Self-Drive Motorboats and Rowing Boats
John Logie Motorboats provides self-drive motorboats and rowing boats, allowing visitors to explore the River Thames at their own pace. These boats are perfect for those who want to take in the sights and sounds of the river on their own terms.
Luxury VIP JL Class Boat
For a more exclusive experience, John Logie Motorboats also offers a luxury VIP JL Class Boat that can accommodate up to 6 adults or 4 adults and 4 children. This boat features comfortable seating, modern amenities, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Day Boats
Kris Cruisers offers day boats for hire, which can be used to cruise upstream to Royal Windsor, Eton, Bray, and Maidenhead, or downstream through Runnymede. These boats are perfect for longer excursions and can be booked for a minimum of 4 hours on weekdays or a full day on weekends and bank holidays.
Vintage Private Boat Trips
For a truly unique experience, Golding Bros. provides luxury vintage boat charters with professional skippers and crews. These bespoke cruises along the River Thames offer a glimpse into the area’s rich history and can be tailored to your specific needs.
Skippered Private Boat Hire
Thames Charters offers skippered private boat hire for groups of up to 12 people. Their 40ft luxury yacht features indoor and outdoor seating, kitchen facilities, and modern amenities, making it the perfect choice for special events, celebrations, or simply enjoying the river in style.
Duration of Boat Trips
The duration of the boat trips varies depending on the provider and the type of experience you choose:
| Provider | Duration |
|---|---|
| John Logie Motorboats | No specific duration mentioned, but boats are available for hire from 10:30am to 16:30pm. |
| Kris Cruisers | Day boats are available for hire from 9am to 5pm, with minimum booking periods varying by season (4 hours on weekdays, whole day on weekends and bank holidays). |
| Golding Bros. | Cruises range from 2 hours to all-day cruises, with options for special events and memorial cruises. |
| Thames Charters | Trips can last from 1 hour to a full day, depending on the charter requirements. |
Private Booking Options
Booking a boat trip with Windsor Castle Boat Hire is easy, with each provider offering their own booking process:
- John Logie Motorboats: No advance bookings are taken; visitors can simply arrive and hire a boat.
- Kris Cruisers: Bookings can be made by telephone, with a credit/debit card required to reserve the boat.
- Golding Bros.: Bookings can be made by filling out a form, emailing, or calling, with a response typically within 24 hours.
- Thames Charters: Bookings can be made by contacting the company, with a £120 deposit required to secure the booking.
Additional Information
When booking a boat trip with Windsor Castle Boat Hire, there are a few additional details to keep in mind:
- Safety: John Logie Motorboats prioritizes safety, providing life jackets for children under 14 and adults if required.
- Pet-Friendly: Kris Cruisers allows pets on their day boats, subject to the size of the dog.
- Food and Drink: Golding Bros. and Thames Charters allow guests to bring their own food and drink, with some catering options available.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely cruise, a private celebration, or a self-guided adventure, Windsor Castle Boat Hire offers a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty of the River Thames and the iconic Windsor Castle.